I still have my FJ62 and thats never going anywhere... But I want something a little newer, more powerful, slightly better on gas, and I guess safer. I dont know the major/minor differences between the earlier 200s and the newer ones in terms of fancy features. Ideally it'd have air conditioned seat (im a fat ass and sweat a ton) and one of those neat center console coolers. Im mainly looking at 2013 and newer. Im open to LX570s as well since they are actually a few thousand dollars less expensive in the used market. My price range is getting me into the 90-110,000 mile range. Anything I need to be worried about with the 5.7?
Anyway, just looking for comments or experience from folks who may know a little more than me and of course any other comments.
Having owned both (07 GX/15 LX), I would hands down tell you the 200 is a better vehicle. I was offroading my GX before it became the hip thing to do and while they are nice vehicles, they are not landcruisers. Parts on the 200/LX are tougher, more durable, and carry more credence throughout the world.
I have a 15LX570 now that I have absolutely put through the ringer. I was with the 200 crew @smittycrusher mentioned and the truck was fine with them even though I looked like the red-headed stepchild (which am in the group). The LX interior is hands down nicer, but trade off is AHC with LX. If you dont want to lift it (aside from sensor lift) you can fit 35s with some cutting and minor adjustments.
If you get the GX, you'll always want the 200- that's just how this works, esp since you've been eyeing them. Last thing you want to do is have buyers remorse after spending that kind of money. Dollar for dollar, the 200/LX is hands down more value and stature than posting pics on IG with a built GX photo-editing the chit out of the color saturation/softness and breaking a cardinal sin of leaving your winch line exposed and connected incorrectly/haphazardly.